Hockeyroos Complete World League Tune-up

The Hockeyroos have completed their World League Finals preparations in Argentina this week with victory over England (4-3) and Korea (4-0).

The Hockeyroos start their campaign on Sunday morning Perth time against hosts Argentina, with the group utilising its time to get some final match practice ahead what promises to be a tense encounter against the world’s top ranked side.

The Australians recorded an entertaining 4-3 win over England on Tuesday night, with goals to Jodie Schulz, Madonna Blyth, Casey Eastham and Emily Smith.

With scores level at 1-1 at the half time break, the contest sprung to life during a thrilling second period with both teams using the opportunity to trial attacking variations and rotate their squads.

Hockeyroos coach Adam Commens took plenty of positives from the match but lamented the soft concession of England’s goals.

“Overall, we played ok. There was some really good play but then also some sloppy play that allowed them to score. All of the goals were pretty soft so that’s something we need to sort for the tournament, but I was pleased with how we toughed it out after two or three days of hard training.”

Stifling conditions ahead of the Hockeyroos final warm up match with Korea caused organisers to switch to three 20 minute periods. The Australians coped better with the heat and the changes and produced a slick display to win 4-0.

Goals to Georgie Parker and Madonna Blyth were complimented by a brace to Emily Smith, with the match also seeing Teneal Attard return to action after recovering from a hamstring complaint.

The Hockeyroos are now resting ahead of Sunday’s World League opener with Argentina, with the match available through the International Hockey Federation’s YouTube channel and on delay on ABC 1 in Australia.

The Hockeyroos have an 18 member squad in Argentina, with AIS-WAIS athlete Ashleigh Nelson, the sole Western Australian representative.